INSIDE BINGHAMTON UNIVERSITY

Watson senior finds ways to help others

Steven Loscalzo has always enjoyed automating tasks and having computers do things for him. These interests led the Newburgh resident to pursue a double degree in computer science and mathematics in the Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science.

“The program is intense, but there are a lot of opportunities that come out of it,” Loscalzo said, “and the faculty make it worthwhile.”

Loscalzo, now a senior, serves as the president of the computer science honor society. He is also a member of the Binghamton Scholars program, Association for Computing Machinery and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

Eileen Head, computer science undergraduate program director, has worked closely with Loscalzo since he became president of the honor society.

“Steven is confident, a wonderful organizer, so professional and has really kept the society going,” Head said.

He has been a peer advisor for the last two years and works on the sub-committee in student services, evaluating orientation and registration processes. “We went over techniques at orientation and figured out ways to make the experience better for students,” Loscalzo said. “I think we can improve by taking the emphasis off scheduling and just have more fun and make friends.”

Last summer, Loscalzo helped register Watson’s 300 freshmen.

“During orientation and open house, he has been instrumental with new students fielding their questions,” Head said. “His impact on peer advising is tremendous.”

Loscalzo enjoys tutoring and helping people, which is why he hopes to teach computer science one day. He plans to pursue a master’s degree in computer science at Binghamton.

Loscalzo also plays the electric guitar. “I never took lessons in it,” he said, “but my freshman year roommate was really good, so I learned from him.”